Preventing sexual exploitation and abuse in communities 

As part of efforts strengthen and prevent sexual exploitation and abuse in communities, a non governmental organisation, Canadian Feed The Children (CFTC) Ghana, has intensified its activities.

CFTC Ghana's Country Director, Augustine N-Yokuni, has highlighted the organisation's ongoing training and refresher programmes for community members, implementing partners, and staff to eradicate unethical behavior.

"As community workers, it is our responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of the people we serve while maintaining a high standard of accountability," Mr. N-Yokuni stated.

He emphasised that the role of community workers is to build trust and create meaningful impacts in their engagements.

“Our job is to ensure that the communities we serve are safe. We must work with care and respect, avoiding any harm to the communities. You have come to the community to work—do so without causing harm,” he advised.

Speaking at a three-day meeting and PSEA training in Tamale, Mr. N-Yokuni explained that the training aimed to equip project steering committees, staff, and partners with the knowledge to identify and prevent sexual exploitation and abuse.

“Some individuals attempt to exploit program participants by offering false promises in exchange for sexual favors. This undermines the dignity of participants and the integrity of the organization,” he noted.

The Country Director also acknowledged the cultural challenges that hinder the reporting of such incidents in Ghana.

“Fear and cultural interference often prevent victims from speaking out. Some traditional and community leaders plead on behalf of offenders, obstructing justice. This must change,” he emphasised.